We are even better than Suker’s team who finished third in 1998, says Lovren
own diminutive superstar who delivered and Modric’s superb 25-yard curling finish capped another mesmerising display from the Real Madrid player.
“Amazing,” said Lovren of Modric. “I said to him it reminded me of his goal against Manchester United for Real [in 2013]... fantastic. He was again one of the best players. He has this calmness, so much experience in his career, he knows how to play these big games. It’s a joy to play with him.”
Croatia’s opening goal came after a mistake from Chelsea goalkeeper Willy Caballero, who teed up Rebic rather than clearing a back pass. Sampaoli, who had been under pressure to drop Caballero, took responsibility for the result, refusing to blame Messi or the keeper.
“Our defeat i s my re s p o n s i b i l i t y because I’m the coach,” the Argentine said. “Had I set things up different it might have turned out much better. I don’t think it’s realistic to put the burden on Caballero.
“The reality of the Argentina squad clouds Leo’s brilliance. Leo is limited because the team doesn’t gel as ideally with him as it should. As coaches we need to realise these things and I’m the one who needs to accept it.”
Argentina’s players will watch Nigeria v Iceland nervously and, even if the former do not win, Croatia coach Zlatko Dalic has said he will rest players for the final group game against them in another blow to Argentina.
Lovren, meanwhile, is looking to the last 16. “To be honest, I don’t mind,” he said. “Whoever comes, we are ready to fight, and even France, they will know they have a tough opponent.”
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